BSS
  16 Feb 2026, 22:13

BGB backed 73 fishermen from Arakan Army's custody

COX'S BAZAR, Feb 16, 2026 (BSS) - The Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) today 
brought back 73 fishermen who had been detained at different times from the 
Naf River and the Bay of Bengal in Teknaf, Cox's Bazar district.

After a series of discussions with Myanmar's armed group, the Arakan Army, 
the fishermen were returned through the Jaliapara Transit Ghat in Teknaf at 
4:30 pm.

The matter was confirmed by Commander of the BGB's Ramu Sector Colonel 
Mohammad Mohiuddin Ahmed.

A BGB delegation departed from the same ghat at noon and went to the Naf 
River's zero line to receive the fishermen. They were handed over there by 
the Arakan Army. The fishermen were later brought back into Bangladesh and 
returned to their families through local representatives and the 
administration.

He further said their return was made possible through continuous discussions 
with the Arakan Army.

According to the Arakan Army, the fishermen were detained for allegedly 
crossing the maritime boundary and entered into Myanmar waters. Discussions 
are ongoing to secure the release of other detained fishermen.

It may be mentioned here that at least 200 fishermen were taken away at 
different times from the Naf River and the Bay of Bengal along with their 
trawlers and are still being held by the Arakan Army. Of them, 73 have now 
been brought back.